Cast iron is legendary for its durability, but that doesn’t mean it can be tossed around without care — especially when you’re packing it for the trail. Proper storage and packing ensures your pans last for years and are always ready to cook when you are.
Before heading out, give each piece a quick check. Season your pans with a light coat of oil and heat them briefly to seal it in — this prevents rust and keeps the surface slick. Wrap each item in a clean towel or t-shirt. This helps contain any oil and keeps your cookware from scratching your other gear.
Use a dedicated plastic tub or storage bin for all your cast iron and cooking gear. This keeps things organized and keeps soot off your tent or clothing. Pack pot holders, tongs, a grill grate, parchment paper, and a scraper inside the bin so everything’s ready to go.
Once at camp, store your pans off the ground — either on a table or on a lid when it’s not hot. After cooking, scrape out any food bits, rinse with hot water, and dry thoroughly. Then rub in a thin layer of oil before storing again. Don’t leave pans wet overnight or stacked without airflow — that’s a recipe for rust.
Good cast iron care at camp means less cleanup, better food, and cookware that only gets better with time.
